Two children and two women have died in a house fire in south east London.
The blaze broke out at a house on Hamilton Road in Bexleyheath at around 8.30pm last night (Thursday).
Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were sent to the scene.
Crews in breathing apparatus rescued two women and two children from the first floor using a nine metre ladder.
They all tragically died at the scene, the London Fire Brigade said.
One man left the building before crews arrived.
He was taken to hospital by the London Ambulance Service.
Andy Roe, London Fire Commissioner, said: "This is a truly terrible incident which is both sad and shocking.
"Our thoughts are with the family, friends and local community at this difficult time."
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
